A 'Men's Shed' - at least as far as this initiative is concerned - is a meeting place where men can gather and undertake a variety of activities. They are open to all men regardless of age, background or ability and they have become places where men can share skills and knowledge.

"We are starting to hear more about Men's Sheds, which have been successfully developed in Castleisland, Killorglin, Tralee and Killarney," Joanne explained. "The main objective of a Men's Shed is to enhance the health and wellbeing of the men participating and one can be easily set up in any community."

"The range of projects which can be organised in a Men's Shed is endless - from woodwork to computer skills to vegetable growing to name a few. Some Men's Sheds have even concentrated on projects such as furniture restoration and boat building, which could espcially work in an area like Dingle."

North and East Kerry Development hops to open a Men's Shed in the Dingle area in the coming months with the co-operation of the local community.

"We are looking for premises and we are also aiming to get a steering group together," said Joanne." We would like to hear from all interested parties who have ideas or skills to offer or who are just simply interested in the project."

Anyone who would like to get involved in the establishment of a Men's Shed in the Dingle area can contact Joanne on 066-7142788 or via email at jonisha@nekd.ie.